“Insecure” is a Must Watch During Black History Month
In 2000, “Girlfriends” debuted on CW. The sitcom followed the lives of Black women as they navigated friendships, relationships and jobs, while also battling the challenges of adulthood. “Girlfriends” revolutionized the way Black women were represented in television by showcasing Black humanity through the imperfections of these characters. The same can be said for Issa Rae’s hit show “Insecure.”
In 2016, Issa Rae took the world by storm when her hit show, “Insecure,” debuted on HBO. The show focuses on the lives of Issa Dee — played by show creator Issa Rae — and her best friend Molly Carter (Yvonne Orji) as they grapple with their insecurities while dealing with life’s changes. What makes “Insecure” important in Black storytelling is the fact that it is centered around Black imperfection.
Historically, Hollywood has included the “token Black character,” a role that lacks nuance and is palatable for white audiences. In “Stranger Things,” Lucas Sinclair is the token Black character, as he helps move the plot along for his white counterparts without having a story of his own. Lucas’ story arc lies in perfectionism, as he strives to be the perfect friend, confidant and partner. However, stories like these further the notion that Black people need to be perfect for their stories to matter.
Issa Rae’s storytelling combats the “token Black character” by addressing the imperfections of Black characters head-on. This is personified by Molly, who feels the pressure of trying to be a “respectable” Black woman in her field of work and dating life. Molly is perfect on paper, as she has a successful career, an active dating life and a loving best friend. However, Molly's own “perfectionism” often leads to her demise. Issa Rae breaks this societal mold placed on Black women by allowing the audience to get into Molly’s psyche and see her for who she is outside of her identity. Molly is insecure; she self-sabotages and often gets in the way of her own happiness.
In an industry that profits off of Black pain, shows like “Insecure” defy the odds by showing that Black identity does not solely exist in struggle. Black people don’t need to be deemed socially acceptable or perfect for their stories to be valid. While it is still important to remain educated on the struggles that Black people face, it is just as important to showcase Black joy, Black love and Black imperfections because those are integral pieces of Black humanity.